9 Charming Massachusetts Communities To Retire Around Boston
Massachusetts, a state imbued with the lore of the American Revolution and swarming with the vibrancy of modern innovation, offers more than just a walk down history's lane. As you contemplate where to hang your hat in retirement, why not consider the charming enclaves that circle Boston like a string of pearls?
These nine towns are all within a leisurely three-hour drive from Boston. From the serene trails of Groton to the coastal breezes of Plymouth, these locales offer a perfect backdrop for those golden years. Not just places to live but places to thrive, each town provides unique cultural, recreational, and social opportunities that promise a rich, full retirement. Ready to explore where history meets the horizon? Join us as we unveil Massachusetts' best-kept secrets for a retirement that's anything but retiring!
Amesbury
Amesbury, with a population of around 17,000, is known for its rich history dating back to the 17th century. Noteworthy within Amesbury is the Lowell’s Boat Shop, a National Historic Landmark and the oldest continuously operating boat shop in the United States, which offers workshops and museum exhibits. Dining options include the popular Flatbread Company, which serves organic pizzas in a rustic setting by the river, and Crave, known for its wine selection and fine dining.
In terms of activities, Amesbury Sports Park is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round tubing and a ropes course. The town’s proximity to Lake Gardner provides ample opportunities for fishing and boating. Amesbury does not have its own senior living villages, but nearby options in Salisbury and Newburyport cater to senior residents. The median house price in Amesbury stands at approximately $530,000, making it relatively affordable for retirees seeking a small-town ambiance near Boston.
Maynard
Maynard's history is deeply connected to the wool industry, and the former wool mill now houses ArtSpace Maynard, an art center with over 80 studios and a gallery that hosts regular exhibitions. Dining options include the popular Serendipity Cafe, which offers locally sourced, eclectic fare, and El Huipil, known for its authentic Mexican dishes.
Maynard features the Assabet River Rail Trail, ideal for walking and biking. The Maynard Golf Course provides a scenic spot for golf enthusiasts. Additionally, the town is home to the Camellia Gardens Retirement Community, which offers various senior living options tailored to different needs and lifestyles. With a median house price of around $580,000, Maynard represents an upscale, culturally rich option for retirees.
Plymouth
Plymouth was renowned as the landing site of the Pilgrims in 1620. The town hosts the iconic Plymouth Rock in Pilgrim Memorial State Park and the comprehensive Plimoth Patuxet Museums, which offer a detailed look at early American history through replica settlements and a Wampanoag Homesite. Dining options include Wood’s Seafood, which offers fresh catches right off the boat, and The New World Tavern, known for its craft beers and live music.
Brewster Gardens provides a scenic space for walks and picnics along Town Brook, and nearby White Horse Beach offers peaceful coastal views. Plymouth has several senior living options, including the benchmark community of Laurelwood at The Pinehills, known for its comprehensive amenities and vibrant social environment. With a median house price of around $600,000, Plymouth is worth every cent.
Grafton
Grafton, established in 1735, is notable for its pre-revolutionary war architecture. The town features the Grafton Historical Society Museum, showcasing artifacts and displays that highlight its rich past. Dining options in Grafton include Reunion Tap and Table, known for its American cuisine and craft beers, and Post Office Pub, offering a traditional New England menu.
For outdoor recreation, the Grafton Lakes State Park provides trails for hiking and spots for fishing. Silver Lake Beach is popular among locals for its serene environment suitable for swimming and picnicking. Grafton does not specifically feature senior living villages, but nearby towns offer several options like Whitney Place in Northbridge. The median house price in Grafton is around $550,000, presenting a more affordable living option for retirees looking for a tranquil yet engaging environment near Boston.
Pepperell
Pepperell is known for its Covered Bridge, a modern replica of a historic bridge that serves as a scenic point for photos and leisurely walks. Charlotte’s Cozy Kitchen and The Rail Trail Flatbread Co. in nearby towns provide close dining options, known for hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pepperell's Nashua River Rail Trail offers 11 miles of paved pathway perfect for biking, walking, and nature watching. The nearby Heald Pond is popular for fishing and kayaking. While Pepperell itself does not host senior living villages, nearby Groton has RiverCourt Residences, offering comprehensive services for seniors. With a median house price of around $520,000, which is well below the state median of $625,000, Pepperell represents a fantastic option for retirees seeking a quiet, nature-filled environment.
Groton
Groton is home to the prestigious Groton School, where notable American figures have studied. Dining highlights include the Gibbet Hill Grill, set in a restored barn with views of its own farm, and Filho's Cucina, which offers homemade Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Groton’s extensive network of trails and conservation lands, like the Groton Place and Sabine Woods, offers excellent hiking, bird watching, and nature walks. The Groton Historical Society hosts a museum in the Boutwell House, providing insights into the local heritage. Notably, RiverCourt Residences in Groton caters to seniors with various living options and amenities focused on comfort and community engagement. The median house price in Groton hovers around $700,000, reflecting its fantastic amenities and landscapes.
Lunenburg
Lunenburg is known for its distinctive architecture, like the 18th-century Bull Run Restaurant, which hosts live music and serves traditional American fare. Another highlight is the historic Whalom Park, which operated as an amusement park until 2000 and now serves as a nostalgic local landmark. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy local brews at the Dragonfly Cafe, renowned for its cozy ambiance and artisanal selections.
The town’s outdoor appeal is centered around Lake Whalom, offering boating and scenic views, perfect for leisurely retirement days. Lunenburg also benefits from the nearby Settlers Crossing Golf Course, providing golfing opportunities in a picturesque setting. For senior residents, the nearby Keystone Apartments in Fitchburg offer specialized senior living solutions. Lunenburg's median house price stands at around $480,000, presenting a cost-effective option for retirees who appreciate a quiet, community-focused environment with access to Boston’s metropolitan conveniences.
Wareham
Wareham serves as the gateway to Cape Cod, and is known as "The Cranberry Capital of the World," reflecting its deep roots in cranberry farming, highlighted annually during the Cranberry Harvest Celebration. For dining, locals and visitors frequent The Lobster Pot, which offers fresh seafood with picturesque views of Buzzards Bay, and Ella’s Wood Burning Oven Restaurant, known for its Italian-inspired dishes.
Onset Beach offers tranquil settings for swimming and sunbathing, while the Myles Standish State Forest, just a short drive away, provides extensive trails for hiking and cycling. Wareham does not host large senior living villages, but nearby towns like Marion offer quaint, specialized communities such as Sippican Healthcare Center. With a median house price of around $510,000, Wareham is an attractive option for retirees seeking coastal living near Boston without the high cost of Cape Cod itself.
Newburyport
Newburyport, located about an hour north of Boston along the Merrimack River, is a historic seaport with a vibrant maritime heritage. It's known for the Custom House Maritime Museum, which provides insights into the city's customs history and local sea tales. Dining venues such as Brine, which specializes in oysters and upscale seafood, and the Grog Restaurant, known for its New England comfort food, reflect the town's coastal influence and culinary variety.
The Clipper City Rail Trail offers a scenic walk through urban landscapes, featuring local art installations. Waterfront Park is a central spot for festivals and live performances, providing stunning river views and ample space for leisurely strolls. Newburyport does not specifically feature senior living villages, but nearby communities such as Avita of Newburyport offer tailored senior care. With a median house price around $800,000, Newburyport is considered a desirable place for retirees.
In conclusion, Massachusetts offers a variety of charming communities for retirees seeking both tranquility and access to Boston’s vibrant culture. These towns provide a mix of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, with affordable housing options and senior living facilities nearby. Each locale promises a fulfilling and enriching retirement experience.
